Crema, located along the banks of the Serio River, came under the rule of the Republic of Venice in the 15th century. Its medieval origins are still visible beneath the Renaissance appearance of Piazza del Duomo. The historic center follows the layout of the ancient cardo and decumanus streets, lined with noble palaces, historic shops, churches, and—within the 16th-century Venetian walls—two ancient convents: San Domenico, now a theater, and Sant’Agostino, now a museum.
Pavia, situated along the Via Francigena and on the banks of the Ticino River, is a city with a thousand-year-old history. It was once the capital of both the Lombard Kingdom and the Kingdom of Italy. Among its most notable landmarks are:
San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro, which houses the remains of Saint Augustine
The Romanesque San Teodoro Church
The Castle, the Covered Bridge, the medieval towers of Piazza San Leonardo, and
The University, with its museums and prestigious colleges.
DAY I
Meet with your guide and enjoy a tour of the medieval historic center and Piazza Duomo.
Transfer to visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Croce, a masterpiece of the Lombard Mannerist style, designed by Giovanni Battagio, a pupil of Bramante and member of the Milanese school.
Lunch follows.
In the afternoon, guided tours of the two most significant palaces in the city:
Palazzo Zurla De Poli (16th century), with Renaissance fresco cycles by top local artists
Palazzo Terni De Gregorj (18th century), a striking example of the power of the new local aristocracy under Venetian rule—curiously unfinished in comparison to the original project.
Transfer to the Pavese countryside for dinner and overnight stay.
DAY II
Morning visit to Chignolo Po Castle, known as the “Versailles of Lombardy”, with its thousand-year history.
Lunch at the castle.
In the afternoon, guided visit to the Certosa di Pavia, a monumental fusion of styles, marbles, paintings, and decorations, commissioned by Gian Galeazzo Visconti.
Leisurely walk through the historic center of Pavia and departure.
Itinerary contact:
Matilde Depoli depolimatilde@gmail.com – T. 3398086059
